35 Variations of Joseph
- Joseph
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Joseph is one of the most classic names in American nomenclature, popular with parents from many ethnic backgrounds and having dual-religious appeal.
- Seosamh
Description:
Seosamh is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Joseph, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Pronounced approximately as 'SHAW-suv' or 'SHO-sav,' this name reflects Ireland's linguistic heritage and cultural identity. While common knowledge of Irish names has grown internationally, Seosamh remains primarily used within Ireland or among diaspora communities with strong Irish cultural connections. It represents a way to honor both biblical tradition and Irish heritage simultaneously. The name gained renewed interest during periods of Irish cultural revival but remains less common than its anglicized version, Joseph. Seosamh offers parents a way to connect with authentic Irish language and tradition while using a name with deep historical roots.
- Giuseppe
Origin:
Italian variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
This form of Joseph is an enduring classic in Italy where it remains in the Top 20. In the States it's been hovering under the radar for decades, but its spirited, distinctive-yet-familiar sounds might help it catch on, as Giovanni has
- Yosef
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
A widely used Hebrew form of Joseph, with a sophisticated and continental air.
- Pino
Origin:
Italian, diminutive of names such as GiuseppinoDescription:
There are many more substantial Italian choices.
- Iokepa
Description:
Iokepa is a masculine Hawaiian name that is the Hawaiian form of Joseph, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'God will increase.' The name reflects Hawaii's unique linguistic traditions and cultural heritage, demonstrating how Biblical names were adapted into the Hawaiian language following European contact. Pronounced 'yo-KEH-pa,' it features the melodic vowel patterns characteristic of Hawaiian names. Iokepa remains primarily used within Hawaiian families and communities, representing cultural pride and connection to heritage. For Hawaiian families, choosing this name often reflects a desire to honor both ancestral traditions and family connections while celebrating the distinct cultural identity of Hawaii.
- Yusuf
Origin:
Arabic variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Yusuf is the Arabic form of Joseph, used in the Middle East, as well as internationally from France and the US, to the UK, Turkey and Azerbaijan - where, as of 2023, it ranked in the Top 100.
- Jo
Origin:
Short form of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Jo is usually the feminine form of the name, while Joe is the masculine spelling.
- Osip
Description:
Osip is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Joseph (Yosef), meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' It gained prominence in Russian history and literature, notably through the poet Osip Mandelstam. The name has historical significance in Eastern European and Russian Orthodox traditions but has remained relatively uncommon outside these regions. Osip has never ranked high on Western naming charts, maintaining its distinctive cultural identity. The name carries a strong, concise sound with its two syllables, offering a unique alternative to the more common Joseph. Parents drawn to this name often appreciate its literary connections, Russian heritage, or are seeking a distinctive name with historical roots.
- Beppe
Description:
Beppe is a masculine Italian name that functions as a familiar diminutive of Giuseppe, the Italian form of Joseph. This affectionate nickname originated in Italy, particularly common in northern regions. The name Joseph derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Beppe maintains a warm, approachable quality while honoring Italian heritage and tradition. Outside of Italy, the name remains relatively uncommon, though Italian diaspora communities may use it. In modern Italy, Beppe continues to be used as both a nickname and occasionally as a given name in its own right. The name carries cultural significance, with notable bearers including Italian writers, politicians, and athletes. Its short, distinctive sound makes it memorable across cultural boundaries.
- Yusef
Description:
Yusef is a masculine name representing a transliteration variant of Yusuf, the Arabic form of Joseph. The name has deep historical roots in Islamic tradition, where Yusuf (Joseph) is revered as a prophet mentioned prominently in the Quran. The name derives from Hebrew origins meaning 'God will add' or 'God increases.' Yusef remains popular throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslim communities worldwide. This spelling variation has gained some recognition in Western countries, appealing to parents seeking names with Arabic heritage but accessible pronunciation. Yusef carries connotations of wisdom, patience, and beauty in Islamic tradition, as Prophet Yusuf is described as exceptionally handsome and wise. The name's international recognition makes it cross-culturally viable while maintaining its distinctive cultural roots.
- Pepito
Description:
Pepito is a Spanish diminutive of José (Joseph), adding an affectionate quality to the original name. The -ito suffix indicates smallness or endearment in Spanish culture. It's commonly used as a nickname for boys named José, but has also become a standalone name in Hispanic communities. Pepito carries a warm, friendly connotation and evokes a sense of youthfulness. While more common as a nickname than an official given name, it maintains popularity in Spanish-speaking regions and communities. The name has occasionally appeared in literature and popular culture, reinforcing its cultural significance. Pepito's friendly sound and clear cultural roots give it a distinctive charm that continues to appeal to parents seeking a name with Latin heritage.
- Joseba
Description:
Joseba is a masculine Basque form of Joseph, originating from the Basque Country spanning northern Spain and southwestern France. The name derives ultimately from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Joseba maintains strong cultural significance within Basque communities, where traditional names are treasured as expressions of cultural identity and heritage. While uncommon outside Basque regions, it offers a distinctive alternative to the more widespread Joseph variants. The name carries both religious significance from its biblical roots and cultural importance as part of Basque naming traditions, making it a meaningful choice that connects a child to this unique European heritage.
- Yazid
Description:
Yazid is a masculine name with Arabic origins, meaning "increase" or "he who adds." It has historical significance in Islamic culture, as it was the name of several caliphs and notable figures throughout Middle Eastern history. The name carries connotations of growth, abundance, and prosperity. While traditionally popular in Arabic-speaking countries and Muslim communities worldwide, Yazid has gained limited recognition in Western countries as cultural boundaries become more fluid. The name is appreciated for its distinctive sound, meaningful etymology, and cultural significance. Yazid has a strong, concise phonetic quality with its two clear syllables and distinctive 'z' sound, making it both memorable and relatively easy to pronounce across different languages.
- Pipo
Description:
Pipo is a charming masculine name with multiple cultural connections. In Spanish-speaking countries, it often serves as a nickname for Felipe (Philip), while in Italian it may be a diminutive for Giuseppe (Joseph). The name has a playful, approachable quality with its repeating 'p' sound and simple two-syllable structure. In Finland, Pipo exists as an everyday word meaning 'beanie' or 'woolly hat.' Though uncommon as a formal given name in most Western countries, Pipo's international versatility and friendly sound make it appealing as both a nickname and given name. Its brevity and easy pronunciation work well across language barriers, giving it global appeal for parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible.
- Kep
Description:
Kep is a short, distinctive masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Cambodian geography, referring to Kep Province, giving it cultural significance in Southeast Asian contexts. Alternatively, it could be a shortened form of names like Kepler or keeper, or even a surname adapted for first-name use. The brevity of Kep gives it a modern, minimalist appeal that works well in contemporary naming trends favoring short, impactful names. The name's rarity makes it statistically uncommon in most regions, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options. With its crisp sound and easy pronunciation across multiple languages, Kep offers simplicity while remaining memorable.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
